Google’s Web-based apps get a big-business boost

The big news today in the productivity software market is the decision by tech consultancy Capgemini to add Google’s Web-based programs, including Docs & Spreadsheets, to the offerings it supports for large companies. See the press release here: PDF.

As noted in this AP story, analysts say Capgemini’s decision will give Google’s productivity applications more credibility in the eyes of large businesses. That, in turn, could put added pressure on Microsoft to move more in the direction of a Web-based productivity suite.

At the same time, the Redmond company already appeared to be headed in that direction. Microsoft Business Division President Jeff Raikes, talking to financial analysts in July, said the company is “investing substantially in Web productivity as a complement to what we do in our traditional Office productivity.” While declining to elaborate, he indicated that there’s something more coming on that front sometime this year.